Crocus vernus 'Purpureus Grandiflorus'
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Tried and True Recommended by 4 Professionals
Common Name: Spring crocus
Type: Bulb
Family: Iridaceae
Zone: 3 to 8
Height: 0.25 to 0.5 feet
Spread: 0.25 to 0.5 feet
Bloom Time: April
Bloom Color: Purple
Bloom Description: Deep velvety purple
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Low
Flowers: Showy Flowers
Tolerates: Clay Soil, Black Walnuts, Deer
Uses: Cut Flower, Will Naturalize

Culture

Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Plant corms about 2-3" deep and 2-3" apart in the fall. If planted in the lawn, crocuses should be grouped and left unmowed until foliage yellows in late spring.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Large flowering crocuses are among the most widely grown early spring bulbs (actually corms). Each 'Purpureus Grandiflorus' corm produces several upright, cuplike, deep velvety purple flowers on stems rising to 4-6" above basal, grass-like leaves. Versatile and easy to grow. Blooms shortly after snowdrops (Galanthus). Naturalizes well.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Squirrels, mice and other rodents can be problems. Squirrels seem particularly adept at locating, digging up and eating newly planted corms.

Garden Uses

Brings color and contrast to the early spring lawn and garden. Mass in lawns, under trees or in sunny woodland areas. Also may plant groupings in rock gardens, in front of shrubs or in various other nooks and crannies around the home.

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